Modulation of Human Sperm Mitochondrial Respiration Efficiency by Plant Polyphenols

In Vivo Antioxidant Activity of Common Dietary Flavonoids: Insights from the Yeast Model Saccharomyces cerevisiae

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress, associated with diseases and aging, underscores the therapeutic potential of natural antioxidants. Flavonoids, known for scavenging free radicals and modulating cell signaling, offer significant health benefits and contribute to longevity. To explore their in vivo effects, we investigated the antioxidant activity of quercetin, apigenin, luteolin, naringenin, and genistein, using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism.

METHODS

We performed viability assays to evaluate the effects of these compounds on cell growth, both in the presence and absence of H2O2. Additional assays, including spot assays, drug drop tests, and colony-forming unit assays, were also conducted.

RESULTS

Viability assays indicated that the tested compounds are non-toxic. H2O2 reduced yeast viability, but flavonoid-treated cells showed increased resistance, confirming their protective effect. Polyphenols scavenged intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protected cells from oxidative damage. Investigations into defense systems revealed that H2O2 induced catalase activity and oxidized glutathione accumulation, both of which were reduced by polyphenol treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The tested natural compounds enhance cell viability and reduce oxidative damage by scavenging ROS and modulating antioxidant defenses. These results suggest their potential as supplements and pave the way for further research.

Supplementation of sperm cooling medium with Eurycoma longifolia extract enhances native Thai chicken sperm quality and fertility potential

Cooled semen storage methods result in oxidative stress generated by an imbalance between oxidation rates, specifically reactive oxygen species production, and sperm cell antioxidants, leading to degradation of semen quality. We aimed to investigate the impact of adding Eurycoma longifolia (EL) extract as an antioxidant supplement in semen storage medium (IGGKPh semen extender) on semen quality and fertility potential. EL extract at concentrations of 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/mL was assessed for its antioxidant capacity in IGGKPh semen extender. Our findings revealed that the total phenolic content in the EL extract did not vary significantly across the various concentrations and temperatures tested. However, incubation at 5°C was found to be the most effective temperature for increasing the EL extract antioxidant capacity as assessed via the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl inhibition assay in a dose-dependent manner. Supplementation of the IGGKPh semen extender with 15 mg/mL EL extract was found to enhance semen quality during cold storage for up to 48 h (p < 0.05), as evidenced by decreased malondialdehyde levels in cooled semen (p < 0.05). However, antioxidant enzyme activities showed no significant differences among the various experimental groups (p > 0.05). The fertility test showed that the 15 mg/mL EL extract group stored for 24 h had a higher percentage than the control group (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in percentage between the two groups at 48 h of storage (p > 0.05). The hatchability showed no significant difference in both 24 and 48-h storage periods (p > 0.05). Our results indicated that supplementing the IGGKPh semen extender with 15 mg/mL EL extract may positively influence semen quality during storage, suggesting potential applications for enhancing semen quality.

Positive Effects of a Resveratrol-Based Nutraceutical in Association with Surgical Scleroembolization: A Pilot Retrospective Clinical Trial

Background: Varicocele still today represents a common cause of infertility in young men. The treatment strategy remains a surgical approach such as scleroembolization; however, the complete restoration of spermatic parameters afterward requires an average of six or more months to fully regain optimal seminal parameters. Recently, many studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of Resveratrol in male fertility, given its potential anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and mitochondrial effects. Therefore, Resveratrol-based nutraceuticals could be promising as an adjuvant to mitigate subfertility in patients with varicocele. Methods: In the present study, we retrospectively analyzed the effects of the administration of a Resveratrol-based nutraceutical after the scleroembolization procedure. The improvement of sperm quality in terms of number, motility, and morphology were considered to be the study's main endpoints. A spreadsheet program was used for data analysis, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: We found a statistically significant improvement in the spermatic parameters (sperm count and total motility) and an increase in normal sperm after only 4 months of treatment. The supplementation with a Resveratrol-based nutraceutical associated with the surgical procedure showed encouraging results if compared to data from a control group and the results reported in the literature linked to scleroembolization practice alone. In fact, there was a clear improvement in the seminal parameters at 4 months. Conclusions: This suggests the positive impact of the Resveratrol-based nutraceutical in synergizing with scleroembolization in reducing the time needed to fully recover sperm function.

Role of Eruca sativa L. seeds in boosting the reproductive performance of male Japanese quails (Coturnix c. japonica)

Herein we attempt to shed light on the potential improving effect of Eruca sativa seeds (ESS) on the reproductive aspects of male Japanese quails. To accomplish this objective, two groups of quails were supplemented with ESS powder at doses of 5 and 10 g/kg feed from 7 days to 140 days of age, in addition to the control group, which did not receive treatment. Forty males were reared singly in cages to evaluate sperm characters and 32 males were raised with 64 females to evaluate fertility and sperm penetrability. Sixty-six phytochemical compounds were found according to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of ESS. The most plentiful ones are 13-docosenoic acid methyl ester, 9-octadecenoic acid methyl ester, and linoleic acid methyl ester. Both 5 g/kg and 10 g/kg doses of ESS showed similar effectiveness in enhancing various reproductive parameters, including gonadal index, sperm characteristics, fertility, libido, and cloacal gland attributes. However, some aspects like sperm concentration and testosterone levels exhibited a dose-dependent response. There is no significant change in mortality rate of supplemented groups compared to the control one. ESS also caused a reduction in feed intake and an enhancement in feed conversion ratio without affecting final body weight and body weight gain. This suggests potential nutritional benefits beyond reproductive health. The low-dose-fed group showed a significant reduction in total cholesterol and malondialdehyde compared to the high-dose-fed and unfed groups. The higher dose notably increased total antioxidant capacity compared to the lower dose and control group. Despite the positive effects on male reproductive parameters, there wasn't a significant impact on hatchability percentage, indicating that while male fertility improved, it might not have directly affected the viability of the eggs. Overall, the study suggests that ESS could be a safe and promising addition to the diet of male Japanese quails to enhance their reproductive capabilities without adverse effects. The findings could have implications for poultry farming by potentially improving breeding efficiency and health outcomes in quails.

Apigenin supplementation substantially improves rooster sperm freezability and post-thaw function

This pioneering research investigated apigenin potential to augment rooster sperm cryosurvival in an extender model. Apigenin is a natural antioxidant flavonoid showing promise for improved post-thaw sperm function. However, its effects on avian semen cryopreservation remain unexplored. This first study supplemented rooster sperm Lake extender with 0, 50, 100, 200, 400 μmol/L apigenin to determine the optimal concentrations for post-thaw quality. Supplementation with 100 μmol/L apigenin resulted in significant enhancements in total motility (from 41.5% up to 71.5%), progressive motility (18.1% to 29.1%) (p < 0.05), membrane integrity (40% to 68%), mitochondrial function (p < 0.001), viability (37% to 62%) and total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.001) compared to the control. It also substantially reduced percentages of abnormal morphology, reactive oxygen species and apoptosis (p < 0.001). Although 200 μmol/L apigenin significantly enhanced some attributes, effects were markedly lower than 100 μmol/L. Higher doses did not improve cryoprotective parameters. This indicates 100 μmol/L as the optimal apigenin concentration. This represents the first report of apigenin protecting rooster sperm from cryodamage. The natural antioxidant improved post-thaw sperm quality, likely by suppressing oxidative stress and apoptosis. Apigenin shows promise for enhancing rooster sperm cryosurvival.

Role of Mediterranean diet in endocrine diseases: a joint overview by the endocrinologist and the nutritionist

PURPOSE

The purpose of this review is to examine the current evidence on the potential role of Mediterranean diet (MD) in the prevention and management of endocrine disorders and to highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between endocrinologists and nutritionists.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify relevant studies published in English. Studies were selected based on their relevance to the role of MD in the prevention and management of endocrine disorders. The search terms included "Mediterranean diet," "endocrine disorders," "thyroid disorders," "gonadal disorders," and "neuroendocrine tumors".

RESULTS

The studies reviewed suggest that MD may have a beneficial effect in the prevention and management of various endocrine disorders, including thyroid disorders, gonadal disorders, and neuroendocrine tumors. MD has been associated with decreased risk of nodular thyroid disease and thyroid cancer, improved male and female reproductive health, and a potential role in the management of neuroendocrine tumors. MD's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as its high levels of phytochemicals, may play a role in its beneficial effects.

CONCLUSION

Interdisciplinary collaboration between endocrinologists and nutritionists is essential for the optimal management of endocrine disorders, including the potential role of MD in their prevention and management. While further research is needed, the current evidence suggests that MD may have a protective effect against endocrine disorders, and its incorporation into dietary recommendations may be beneficial.

Effects of quercetin on gentamicin-induced experimental testicular injury in rats

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of gentamicin (GEN) on the testis and whether quercetin (QUE) has any protective effect. Twenty-four adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into equal four groups: control (0.9% saline solution), GEN (80 mg∕kg GEN), QUE (50 mg∕kg QUE) and GEN+QUE (80 mg∕kg GEN + 50 mg∕kg QUE). Histopathological (HP) evaluation of testis was performed, epididymal sperm parameters were analyzed and oxidative status was evaluated. The use of QUE improved the HP findings, such as decrease in the germinal epithelial thickness in the testicular tissue of the GEN group, decrease in the Johnsen's tubular biopsy score (JTBS), increase in the rate of immature cell shedding tubules, and the apoptotic index (AI). In the GEN group, sperm count, and abnormal morphology increased compared to the control group; the viability and motility decreased according to the sperm analysis results. In the GEN+QUE group, QUE was found to improve sperm viability and morphology. In the GEN group, tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased while superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels decreased. Compared with the GEN+QUE group, it was found that the tissue MDA level decreased, while the levels of SOD, CAT and GPx increased. The results demonstrate that GEN impairs testicular structure and function, and QUE treatment can prevent this adverse effect.

Association between dietary total antioxidant capacity and semen quality among men attending an infertility clinic: a cross-sectional study

STUDY QUESTION

Is dietary non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity related to semen quality?

SUMMARY ANSWER

The only statistically significant association of semen quality parameters with dietary total antioxidant capacity (DTAC) detected was an inverse association between DTAC and ejaculate volume.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Growing interest exists regarding the role of diet in influencing semen quality. While DTAC is linked to favorable health outcomes, its association with semen quality, especially among men attending infertility clinics, remains understudied.

STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION

This cross-sectional study was carried out between June and December of 2020. In total, 1715 participants were included in the final analysis.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS

Men who attended an infertility clinic in China were enrolled. Experienced clinical technicians performed the semen analysis. The DTAC indices included the ferric-reducing ability of plasma, oxygen radical absorbance capacity, total reactive antioxidant potential, and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity. The quantile regression model was used for multivariate analysis.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

After adjustment for a variety of confounding variables, a significant inverse association was identified between DTAC and ejaculate volume (βcontinuous FRAP = -0.015, 95% CI = -0.023, -0.006, βT3 vs T1 = -0.193, 95% CI = -0.379, -0.006, Ptrend = 0.007; βcontinuous TRAP = -0.019, 95% CI = -0.041, 0.002, βT3 vs T1 = -0.291, 95% CI = -0.469, -0.112, Ptrend = 0.002). The majority of DTAC indices have no statistically significant association with semen quality parameters.

LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION

We cannot infer causality because of the nature of the cross-sectional study design. The robustness of the conclusion may be compromised by the exactness of non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity estimation.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Our findings demonstrated no association between DTAC indices and semen quality parameters among men attending an infertility clinic, except for ejaculate volume. Even though our findings are mostly non-significant, they contribute novel knowledge to the field of study while also laying the groundwork for future well-designed studies.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS

This work was supported by the JieBangGuaShuai Project of Liaoning Province [grant number 2021JH1/10400050], the Clinical Research Cultivation Project of Shengjing Hospital [grant number M1590], and the Outstanding Scientific Fund of Shengjing Hospital [grant number M1150]. The sponsors had no role in study design, or in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data, or in the writing of the report, or in the decision to submit the article for publication. There are no conflicts of interest to declare.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A.

Pro-Atherogenic and Pro-Oxidant Diets Influence Semen and Blood Traits of Rabbit Bucks

Many dietary factors can affect sperm traits. We compared the effect of diets rich in pro-oxidant (flaxseed oil) and pro-atherogenic (coconut oil) substances without added antioxidants on semen traits, using the rabbit as an animal model. Thirty rabbit bucks (8 months old) were fed three diets for 150 days: CNT (control) a standard diet; HA (high-atherogenic) standard diet + 3% coconut oil, and HO (high-oxidizing) standard diet + 3% flaxseed oil. Semen samples were collected weekly for the evaluation of qualitative traits (kinetics, viability) and the oxidative damage (MDA and cytokines). Blood was collected at the start (T0) and end (T8) of the experimental period for the assessment of the oxidative damage (MDA and isoprostanoids), lipid profile, and testosterone. A worsening of sperm kinetics and viability was recorded in the HA group. Lipid oxidation in seminal plasma, as well as isoprostanoids in blood (F3-IsoPs and F4-NeuroPs), increased in both the HO and HA groups. A high level of TNF-α, a marker of inflammatory status, was recorded in the seminal plasma of the HA group. The resulting outcomes were mainly attributable to the different fatty acid profiles (SFA vs. PUFA) of the diets, which modulated an inflammatory/oxidative response.

Protective effects of epigallocatechin gallate in the mice induced by chronic scrotal hyperthermia

One of the most common complications of chronic scrotal hyperthermia (SHT) is a serious disorder in the male reproductive system. The most important factor in the occurrence of these disorders is oxidative stress. Currently, we investigated the effects of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), as a highly potent antioxidant, against cells and tissue disorders in mice affected by chronic SHT. Fifty-six male adult NMRI mice were allocated into seven equal groups. Except the non-treated (Control) group, six other groups were exposed to heat stress. Two treated groups including Preventive and Curative received oral administration of EGCG (50 mg/kg/day) starting immediately before heat exposure and fifteen consecutive days after the end of the heat exposure, respectively. For each treated group, two subgroups including positive control (Pre/Cur + PC groups) and vehicle (Pre/Cur + vehicle groups) were considered. At the end of the study, sperm characteristics, testosterone levels, stereological parameters, apoptosis, oxidant state, and molecular assessments were performed. We found that the sperm parameters, testosterone levels, the numerical density of spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes, spermatids, sertoli, leydig cells, and seminiferous tubules, biochemical factors (except MDA), and expression of c-kit gene were significantly higher in the Preventive and Curative groups, especially in Preventive ones, compared to other groups (P < 0.05). This is while expression of HSP72 and NF-κβ genes, MDA levels, as well as density of apoptotic cells considerably decreased in both EGCG-treated groups compared to other groups and it was more pronounced in Preventive ones (P < 0.05). Generally, EGCG attenuated cellular and molecular disorders induced by heat stress in the testis and it was more pronounced in Preventive status.

Evaluation of Genistein as a Mitochondrial Modulator and Its Effects on Sperm Quality

Phytoestrogens, such as isoflavones, are bioactive compounds found in plants with defense and protection functions. In the human body, they simulate the behavior of the hormone estradiol and can modulate the function of the male hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This study aims to describe the effects of genistein on sperm quality of Wistar rats (male/adult) after a short oral administration protocol (50 mg/day, for 5 days), focusing on mitochondrial function. No signs of toxicity were observed in the animals during the period. The testicular mass of rats from the genistein-treated group was lower than that from the control group. Isoflavone increased the number of viable Leydig and Sertoli cells, spermatogonia, and primary spermatocytes in the treated group. The rounded spermatid count was similar to the control group, and a decrease in elongated spermatids was observed in the treated group. Genistein treatment increased plasma testosterone levels in the treated group. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an in vivo short protocol demonstrating that genistein administration stimulates the overall oxygen consumption in rat seminal samples. Therefore, genistein induced a pro-spermatogenesis effect, enhanced plasma testosterone levels, and increased oxygen consumption, improving sperm mitochondrial efficiency. Similar protocols can be explored in animal and human infertility issues.

On Males, Antioxidants and Infertility (MOXI): Certitudes, Uncertainties and Trends

Male infertility (MI) involves various endogenous and exogenous facts. These include oxidative stress (OS), which is known to alter several physiological pathways and it is estimated to be present at high levels in up to 80% of infertile men. That is why since the late 20th century, the relationship between OS and MI has been widely studied. New terms have emerged, such as Male Oxidative Stress Infertility (MOSI), which is proposed as a new category to define infertile men with high OS levels. Another important term is MOXI: Male, Antioxidants, and Infertility. This term refers to the hypothesis that antioxidants could improve male fertility without the use of assisted reproductive technology. However, there are no evidence-based antioxidant treatments that directly improve seminal parameters or birth ratio. In this regard, there is controversy about their use. While certain scientists argue against their use due to the lack of results, others support this use because of their safety profile and low price. Some uncertainties related to the use of antioxidants for treating MI are their questionable efficacy or the difficulties in knowing their correct dosage. In addition, the lack of quality methods for OS detection can lead to excessive antioxidant supplementation, resulting in "reductive stress". Another important problem is that, although the inflammatory process is interdependent and closely linked to OS, it is usually ignored. To solve these uncertainties, new trends have recently emerged. These include the use of molecules with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential, which are also able to specifically target the reproductive tissue; as well as the use of new methods that allow for reliable quantification of OS and a quality diagnosis. This review aims to elucidate the main uncertainties about MOXI and to outline the latest trends in research to develop effective therapies with clinically relevant outcomes.

The Role of Dietary Nutrients in Male Infertility: A Review

Male infertility is the main health issue with economic, psychological, and medical attributions. Moreover, it is characterized by an inability to produce a sufficient amount of sperm for the fertilization of an oocyte. Dietary nutrients (DN) have a great effect on male reproductive potential. Observations have indicated that adding DN may protect or treat male infertility. The scope of this criticism is to scrutinize the DN, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and other phytochemicals, in enhancing the semen attributes, sperm bioenergetics and sperm functionality in male infertility. It seems that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids affect sperm quality and maintain the sperm membrane and mitochondria stability. An administration of phytochemicals caused an escalation in sperm mitochondrial function and a decrease in oxidative damage. Furthermore, sundry dietary natural phytochemicals differentially affect (negatively or positively) sperm motility, semen quality, and mitochondrial function, dependent on their levels. Vitamins and trace elements are also nutritional modulators in reducing oxidative stress, thereby enhancing sperm quality, which is accurately connected with sperm mitochondrial function. Also, we described the different types of DN as mitochondrial enhancer for sperm functionality and health. We believe that understanding the DN supports sperm mitochondria and epigenetic modulators that may be responsible for sperm quality and health, and will lead to more embattled and efficient therapeutics for male infertility.

Flavonoids as new regulators of mitochondrial potassium channels: contribution to cardioprotection

Objectives

Acute myocardial ischemia is one of the major causes of illness in western society. Reduced coronary blood supply leads to cell death and loss of cardiomyocyte population, resulting in serious and often irreversible consequences on myocardial function. Mitochondrial potassium (mitoK) channels have been identified as fine regulators of mitochondrial function and, consequently, in the metabolism of the whole cell, and in the mechanisms underlying the cardioprotection. Interestingly, mitoK channels represent a novel putative target for treating cardiovascular diseases, particularly myocardial infarction, and their modulators represent an interesting tool for pharmacological intervention. In this review, we took up the challenge of selecting flavonoids that show cardioprotective properties through the activation of mitoK channels.

Key findings

A brief overview of the main information on mitoK channels and their participation in the induction of cytoprotective processes was provided. Then, naringenin, quercetin, morin, theaflavin, baicalein, epigallocatechin gallate, genistein, puerarin, luteolin and proanthocyanidins demonstrated to be effective modulators of mitoK channels activity, mediating many beneficial effects.

Summary

The pathophysiological role of mitoK channels has been investigated as well as the impact of flavonoids on this target with particular attention to their potential role in the prevention of cardiovascular disorders.

Assessment of Semen Respiratory Activity of Domesticated Species before and after Cryopreservation: Boars, Bulls, Stallions, Reindeers and Roosters

Simple Summary

Artificial insemination is actively used in animal husbandry. It is important to know the quality of the sperm for artificial insemination. One of the indicators of sperm quality can be an assessment of energy metabolism, since energy is needed for sperm to move and fertilize the egg. We studied the respiration rate in spermatozoa of different animal species: bulls, stallions, boars, reindeer and roosters. To determine the production of energy (ATP), the substance 2.4-dinetrophenol (2.4-DNP) was used, which stopped the production of ATP. Semen was assessed before and after freezing. The evaluation showed the same response to the addition of 2.4-DNP to the semen of different species, as well as a sufficient relationship between the reaction of semen respiration to the addition of 2.4-DNP and the fertilizing ability of sperm. At the same time, no relationship was found between the respiratory rate and fertility. The 2.4-DNP test can be a suitable additional measure of sperm quality.

Abstract

To assess sperm quality, it is important to evaluate energy metabolism. The test substance 2.4-dinitrophenol (2.4-DNP) is an agent for destroying oxidative phosphorylation. 2.4-DNP shuts off the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from oxidation and then, the respiration rate increases. If the respiratory chain is damaged, there is little or no response to adding 2.4-DNP. The aim of this study was to analyze the respiratory activity and oxidative phosphorylation in semen before and after freezing and compare the obtained data with the fertilizing ability of sperm. There was a reduction in sperm respiration rates in all species after thawing. The respiration of spermatozoa of boars, bulls, stallions, reindeers and chicken showed responses to 2.4-dinitrophenol. The only difference is in the strength of the response to the test substance. After freezing and thawing, respiratory stimulation by 2.4-DNP decreased. The results of our study show that respiration rate is not correlated with pregnancy rates and egg fertility. However, there was a high correlation between the stimulation of respiration by 2.4-dinitrophenol and pregnancy rates. The test for an increase in respiration rate after adding 2.4-dinitrophenol could be a suitable test of the fertilizing ability of sperm.

Diet and Male Fertility: The Impact of Nutrients and Antioxidants on Sperm Energetic Metabolism

Diet might affect male reproductive potential, but the biochemical mechanisms involved in the modulation of sperm quality remain poorly understood. While a Western diet is considered a risk factor for male infertility, the Mediterranean diet seems to protect against male infertility; moreover, the role of a vegetarian habitus in the preservation of sperm quality is controversial. The aim of this review is to analyze the molecular effects of single nutrients on sperm quality, focusing on their involvement in biochemical mechanisms related to sperm bioenergetics. It appears that diets rich in saturated fatty acids (SFA) and low in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) negatively affect sperm quality, whereas unsaturated fatty acids supplementation ameliorates sperm quality. In fact, the administration of PUFA, especially omega-3 PUFA, determined an increase in mitochondrial energetic metabolism and a reduction in oxidative damage. Carbohydrates and proteins are also nutritional modulators of oxidative stress and testosterone levels, which are strictly linked to sperm mitochondrial function, a key element for sperm quality. Moreover, many dietary natural polyphenols differentially affect (positively or negatively) the mitochondrial function, depending on their concentration. We believe that an understanding of the biochemical mechanisms responsible for sperm quality will lead to more targeted and effective therapeutics for male infertility.

Aqueous extract of Pedalium murex D. Royen ex L. leafy stem protects against lead induced testicular toxicity in Wistar rats

OBJECTIVES

Lead exposure seriously impairs male reproductive function. The protective capacity of Pedalium murex leafy stem and fruit aqueous extracts against lead testicular toxicity is evaluated to find herbals drugs able to improve semen quality.

METHODS

Phytochemical screening were performed according to classical methods. Twenty four male rats were divided into four groups of six rats each and received the following treatments via oral route: distilled water; 0.2% lead acetate in drinking water; 0.2% lead acetate in drinking water with 400 mg/kg P. murex aqueous leafy stem extract; 0.2% leaded water with 400 mg/kg P. murex aqueous fruit extract. Treatments were administered for 70 days. Body and reproductive organs weights, sperm parameters and testicular histological sections of each group were examined.

RESULTS

Flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, alkaloids, and lignans were found in both extracts. Lead intoxication reduced sperm motility and count but increased the percentage of morphologically abnormal sperms. The germinal epithelium of seminiferous tubules histoarchitecture was disorganized by lead. The leafy stem extract was effective in reducing lead induced testicular disruption whereas fruit has not shown any beneficial effect.

CONCLUSIONS

P. murex leafy stem aqueous extract is effective against semen alterations caused by lead.

Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery Strategies to Repair the Mitochondrial Function in Neuroinflammatory and Neurodegenerative Diseases

Mitochondria are vital organelles in eukaryotic cells that control diverse physiological processes related to energy production, calcium homeostasis, the generation of reactive oxygen species, and cell death. Several studies have demonstrated that structural and functional mitochondrial disturbances are involved in the development of different neuroinflammatory (NI) and neurodegenerative (ND) diseases (NI&NDDs) such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Remarkably, counteracting mitochondrial impairment by genetic or pharmacologic treatment ameliorates neurodegeneration and clinical disability in animal models of these diseases. Therefore, the development of nanosystems enabling the sustained and selective delivery of mitochondria-targeted drugs is a novel and effective strategy to tackle NI&NDDs. In this review, we outline the impact of mitochondrial dysfunction associated with unbalanced mitochondrial dynamics, altered mitophagy, oxidative stress, energy deficit, and proteinopathies in NI&NDDs. In addition, we review different strategies for selective mitochondria-specific ligand targeting and discuss novel nanomaterials, nanozymes, and drug-loaded nanosystems developed to repair mitochondrial function and their therapeutic benefits protecting against oxidative stress, restoring cell energy production, preventing cell death, inhibiting protein aggregates, and improving motor and cognitive disability in cellular and animal models of different NI&NDDs.

The Role of Selected Natural Biomolecules in Sperm Production and Functionality

Emerging evidence from in vivo as well as in vitro studies indicates that natural biomolecules may play important roles in the prevention or management of a wide array of chronic diseases. Furthermore, the use of natural compounds in the treatment of male sub- or infertility has been proposed as a potential alternative to conventional therapeutic options. As such, we aimed to evaluate the effects of selected natural biomolecules on the sperm production, structural integrity, and functional activity. At the same time, we reviewed their possible beneficial or adverse effects on male reproductive health. Using relevant keywords, a literature search was performed to collect currently available information regarding molecular mechanisms by which selected natural biomolecules exhibit their biological effects in the context of male reproductive dysfunction. Evidence gathered from clinical trials, in vitro experiments and in vivo studies suggest that the selected natural compounds affect key targets related to sperm mitochondrial metabolism and motion behavior, oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA integrity and cell death. The majority of reports emphasize on ameliorative, stimulating and protective effects of natural biomolecules on the sperm function. Nevertheless, possible adverse and toxic behavior of natural compounds has been indicated as well, pointing out to a possible dose-dependent impact of natural biomolecules on the sperm survival and functionality. As such, further research leading to a deeper understanding of the beneficial or adverse roles of natural compounds is necessary before these can be employed for the management of male reproductive dysfunction.

Plant Extracts as Alternative Additives for Sperm Preservation

Sperm preservation is a crucial factor for the success of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in humans, livestock, and wildlife. Irrespective of the extender and the storage conditions used, semen handling and preservation negatively affect sperm quality. Moreover, oxidative stress, which often arises during semen storage, significantly reduces sperm function and compromises the sperm fertilizing ability by inducing oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Plant extracts have recently emerged as a cheap and natural source of additives to preserve and enhance sperm function during semen storage. The present work provides an update on the use of these natural compounds as alternative additives for sperm preservation in 13 animal species, including humans. A detailed description of the effects of 45 plant species, belonging to 28 families, on sperm function during semen storage is presented. The plant material and extraction method employed, dosage, possible toxic effects, and antimicrobial properties are provided.